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As someone who has suffered from Irritable Bowel Syndrome since a very young age, I have found myself contorting my body into positions to relieve gastrointestinal pain and cramping. Since becoming a yoga instructor, I have experienced less frequent irritations and fewer symptoms of my IBS. This is most likely due to lower stress levels (or how I have been managing stressors differently) and my body’s positive response to stress management.

The body’s response to stress is a key determinant in regulation of emotional state and the gut is a major contributor to stress response. I personally suggest trying meditation and breathing exercises if you live a high stress lifestyle like most of us do these days. Even if you aren’t interested in the yogic lifestyle or taking up yoga as a practice, you can still reap the benefits of the poses. Hopefully you can find some digestive relief by practicing these yoga poses at home. 

1) Downward Facing Dog

2) Cobra pose or Upward Facing Dog

3) Revolved Side Angle

4) High Lunge

5) Child's Pose

6) Standing Forward Fold or Ragdoll

7) Seated Forward Fold

For more yoga poses and their benefits, visit http://www.yogajournal.com. 

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About the Author

Jessica Petrucci has a background in biotechnology and is a certified yoga instructor. As a collegiate athlete, fitness has always been an important part of Jessica’s life. She takes a holistic approach to health, encompassing mind, body, and spirit. Coming from a place of personal experience, Jessica has seen how lifestyle and stress can take a toll on gut health and overall wellness. She strives to help others realize that, by living a well-balanced lifestyle, they can be the best and healthiest versions of themselves.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interested in learning more about Ixcela? Check out Ixcela’s microbiome test, personalized nutrition and fitness plans, and other tools to help you optimize your health.